Greek Fests In Chicago

Greek Fest season in Chicago is a great time of the year for fun seekers who want to get a taste of Greek food and culture.

Every weekend throughout the summer, Greek churches around Chicagoland host their own festivals inviting people to “go Greek” and enjoy great food, drinks, live music, dancing and fun for the kids.

Sharing meals around a table is a huge part of the Greek lifestyle and Greek Fests are no exception. Every year, thousands gather at their favorite festivals to indulge in all their favorite dishes including souvlaki, gyros, pastichio, chicken, dolmades, Greek salad and more (menus may vary).

Guests also like to mingle around the bar for beer, wine, soft drinks and friendly socializing. And of course, what would Greek Fest be without dessert stations featuring sweet treats like Baklava, Kourambiedes, Greek Frappe and of course everyone's favorite, Loukoumades (deep fried batter puffs drizzled with cinnamon and honey).

Greek Fests are made possible by the hundreds of faithful volunteers who donate their time and energy to provide a good experience for all who visit. Thanks to their efforts, guests can enjoy everything Greek Fests have to offer - and a chance to make some great summertime memories!

What people usually remember the most about Greek Fests is the warm hospitality and something the Greeks call “filotimo.” Mike Sakelaris, chairman of the St. Nectarios Greek Fest in Palatine says, “Filotimo is a Greek term describing love and honor, and it’s our goal as a staff to serve every guest with that kind of spirit. We hope every person who visits any Greek Fest around Chicagoland will enjoy themselves and feel right at home.”

Father Dean Botsis of St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church in Niles would add to that sentiment by saying that Greek Fests actually symbolize something deeper. "These summer weekends where people come to enjoy wonderful food, music, dancing and fellowship is a picture of what God wants for everyone...a place where guests can experience acceptance, joy and love."

So take the time this summer to slow down and smell the souvlaki! Enjoy Greek Fests with family and friends all summer long...and make sure to leave room for the loukoumades...OPA!